I recently came across an issue with Xiaomi phones where users would get strange notifications and ads from something called “Package Installer”. It looks like an app installed on the device, yet users are unable to find it and remove it to stop the ads. Some have even suggested that it might be malware installed through rogue APK files, yet it seems that even users who didn’t download anything get the Package Installer pop-ups.
All this got me curious so I decided to investigate further. Turns out Package Installer itself is not some kind of virus – it’s a legitimate system component. However, the ads it displays may not always be safe, so it’s best to stop them
Package Installer can’t be uninstalled but it can be disabled. Disabling it will stop the pop-ups and ads which should make your device both more pleasant to use and also safer. Below, you’ll learn how to do that.
How to Stop the Package Installer Pop-ups
Disabling the Package Installer feature is really easy and should stop the ads in most cases. The next steps will show you how to do that, but note that if the ads don’t stop, there might be something else in your device that’s triggering them. In such cases, try the other suggested solutions you’ll see below.
Xiaomi devices run on MIUI, a system that integrates ads to monetize its ecosystem. While some users tolerate minor ads, the “msa” service often becomes a gateway for unwanted notifications. Disabling it can significantly reduce the problem.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Additional Settings.
- Tap Authorization & Revocation.
- Locate msa and toggle it off.
- Also find the GetApps item and disable it too.
- Confirm the action when prompted.
Disabling “msa” and “GetApps” might not work on the first try. Keep at it. Some users report success after multiple attempts.
Other Ways to Remove the Package Installer Pop-ups
If disabling msa didn’t work, I have prepared several other sugestions that might allow you to get rid of the Package Insatler pop-ups. Here’s what you should do:
Method 1
If disabling MSA didn’t do the trick, you should try this:
- In Settings, go to Password and Security > Privacy.
- Scroll down to Ad Services and tap it.
- On the next page, disable the Personalized ad recommendations.
Method 2
The Package Installer ads might still appear in your File Manager and Downloads apps. If they do, do this:
- Open your File Manager app.
- Tap its menu in the top-left and go to Settings.
- Open the About section and toggle off the Recommendations option on the next page.
- Then close the File Manager and go to the Downloads app.
- Tap the three-dot menu and go to Settings.
- Disable Show recommended content.
Method 3
If the ads are also showing up in your Music app (those are particularly annoying), here’s how to stop them:
- Open the Music app.
- Select the menu from the top-left and tap Settings.
- Go to Advanced.
- Scroll down and disable the Show ads option.
- Also disable Show online recommendations on startup and Personalized recommendations.
Method 4
There’s one more thing you can do to stop annoying Package Installer pop-ups:
- Open the Security app and tap the Settings (gear) icon in the top-right.
- Scroll down and disable Receive Recommendations.
- Then go to the Themes app and tap the My account icon in the bottom-right.
- Go to Settings and disable Show ads and Personalized recommendations.
- Next, open the built-in Mi Browser and tap on your profile icon in the bottom.
- Then select the Settings menu in the top-right.
- Scroll down and go to Advanced.
- Then find the Show ads option and disable it.
After you’ve completed this final method, I am pretty sure your Xiaomi device should stop showing you Package Installer ads.
In case the notifications persist even now, this means you might actually have something rogue installed on your device. In this case, I recommend deleting any recently added apps that seem suspicious and/or come from third-party sources.
Also, check your Downloads folder for any sketchy files that might reside there.
The last piece of advice to stop intrusive pop-ups I can give you now is to go to your browser, for example, Chrome, and open its Settings.
Then go to Notifications and if the Show Notifications option is enabled, toggle it off.
This should prevent any hijacker sites that have gained unauthorized permission in the browser from spamming you with their pop-ups.
Why Do the Xiaomi Package Installer Pop-ups Appear?
The problem with adware notifications stems from Xiaomi’s design choices. MIUI’s integration of “msa” and other system-level ad services creates openings for intrusive ads. While this feature helps subsidize device costs, users face trade-offs in terms of privacy and security. Adware exploits these built-in features to send fake alerts, phishing attempts, or malicious download prompts.
Notifications often mimic system updates or installation alerts. Clicking on them can lead to phishing sites, which prompt users to download more malware. Some users report issues triggered by connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, while others link it to unverified APK downloads.
Protect Your Device with Better Habits
Keeping your device secure requires more than just addressing current issues. Proactive habits reduce the risk of future adware problems.
Stick to Trusted Sources
Downloading apps from unverified websites often invites trouble. Stick to the Google Play Store or other reputable app repositories.
Manage App Permissions
Review app permissions before granting access. If a flashlight app requests access to your contacts, consider it a red flag. Remove apps asking for permissions beyond their purpose.
Update Regularly
Xiaomi frequently releases MIUI updates with security patches. Make sure your device stays current by checking for updates.
How to Check for Updates:
- Open Settings.
- Tap About Phone.
- Select System Updates and install any available updates.
Updates might seem minor, but they address vulnerabilities that bad actors exploit.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication protects your accounts. Even if someone steals your credentials, 2FA blocks unauthorized access.
Conclusion
Adware on Xiaomi devices can feel overwhelming, but it’s manageable with the right steps. Disabling “msa,” blocking notifications, removing suspicious apps, and scanning with antivirus tools all contribute to a safer device. Staying vigilant, using trusted sources, and keeping your software updated ensure long-term protection. With these measures in place, your phone will be free from intrusive notifications and better protected against future risks.
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